The Rainbow in the Sky
NJCU Honors the LGBT Community
By: Clara Orozco
Issue date: 11/25/09 Section: News
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Students and faculty gathered on the Hepburn Hall lawn to witness this shining moment in what is considered by many to be a contentious time for the LGBT community.
LGBT Alliance advisor Renata Moreira welcomed students and faculty to the event.
"We are here to deliver a message; (New) Jersey City University is definitely committed to creating a safe place for our LGBT students, faculty, staff, and allies. By raising this flag we wish to symbolize that the lives of LGBT people are worthy of respect, dignity and honor as are the lives of all people."
At the conclusion of the outdoor ceremony, a moment of silence was held on behalf of victims of homophobia and aids-phobia.
After the flag raising, the event moved to the Gothic Lounge. Guest speaker and NJCU Alumni Nancy Caamano, director at Hudson Pride Connections, spoke about her experiences with "coming out."
"I signed up for the military and realized that it wasn't for me. So I chose to come to NJCU. I remember being nervous about signing up for Gay and Lesbian Literature because I was worried that everyone would then know (about my sexual identity) but being in that class made me feel comfortable with myself."
LGBTFA president Jonathan Colon felt a sense of pride not only in his identity but also as a person who is becoming involved with LGBT issues on campus.
"Being in the LGBTFA has allowed me to be more open to people. I have come to meet a lot of people who, like me, aren't the stereotype of what a homosexual is supposed to be. My involvement in the LGBTFA has made me aware how diverse our issues are as a community. It has opened my mind to the hardships that people face coming out, protecting out rights, etc."
Guest speakers also included John Mendoza from the Jersey City Gay and Lesbian Outreach (JCLGO) as well as Student Government Organization Vice President of Student Activities, Carolina Garcia.
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